Custom Home Building: Navigating the Process as a First-Time Home Buyer

Buying your first home is an experience unlike any other. You’ll learn a lot about what to look for in a house, financial processes, and the importance of patience.

But purchasing an existing home isn’t the only path to homeownership. Building a custom home for your very first residence is entirely feasible and comes with distinct advantages.

When you build your first home, you’re creating a space that truly reflects your style and life. It isn’t without its challenges, but Bigelow Homes, a custom home builder in Minnesota, is here to support every step of your journey.

We’ve put together this guide for first-time home buyers who want to build a custom home, so you can navigate the process with confidence and minimal stress. Read on to discover what makes the experience unique, especially with Bigelow Homes!

Define Your Vision & Budget

Step 1: Start with a clear budget for your custom home. 

This number determines what you can afford, the features you can include, and the location of your new home. Your budget should go hand-in-hand with your vision; what’s essential, and what would simply be nice to have? Create a board, digital or physical, to visualize the styles and features you want.

With these details defined, you’re ready to dive into financing. Building a new home is different from buying an existing one; it typically requires a construction loan, which is paid out in stages as the home is built.

Here’s where Bigelow makes things easier! Unlike most builders, we handle the construction loan on your behalf. 

That means you can skip the complex construction financing process and focus only on securing traditional mortgage financing when your new home is complete. This sets Bigelow apart and simplifies the process for first-time buyers, making your dream home much more attainable!

Assemble Your Custom Home Team

Step 2: A trustworthy custom home builder makes all the difference. Look for a builder with solid reviews, experience with your preferred style, and a portfolio of satisfied clients. 

Good builders communicate clearly, maintain transparency, and know local building codes inside and out. Your builder will also offer architectural and design support – professionals who help transform your vision into blueprints, floor plans, and structural details. This step ensures your home is both beautiful and sound.

You may need a real estate agent specializing in land acquisition, but Bigelow Homes streamlines the process by offering a wide selection of available lots for custom builds in Minnesota. This can help you skip extra steps and get started quickly!

The Construction Journey

Step 3: With your plan approved and permits secured, your home begins to take shape during construction. 

Here’s a look at the general construction process:

• Site Preparation & Foundation: Clearing the lot and pouring the foundation – a milestone that kicks things off.

• Framing & Enclosure: Building the walls, roof, and installing windows – your home starts to take physical form.

• Rough-Ins: Installing key mechanical systems like electrical wiring, plumbing, and HVAC. Inspections happen here for safety.

• Finishing Touches: Hanging drywall, flooring, cabinetry, painting, and installing fixtures. This is where your personal style appears in every detail.

Your Role as the First-Time Homebuyer

Being part of the team matters! When you work with Bigelow Homes, our team prioritizes your preferences, opinions, and insights. 

Here’s what you’ll need to do:

• Communicate often. Check in regularly with your builder, ask questions, and stay informed.

• Engage in decisions. Trust your experts but remain involved in choices, so the home truly reflects your vision.

• Plan safe site visits. See progress first-hand and celebrate milestones along the way.

Why Build With Bigelow Homes in Minnesota?

Building a custom home as a first-time buyer is a journey, but with the right builder, you’ll find it much less intimidating. Bigelow Homes goes above and beyond, even handling construction loans for our buyers. That’s just one reason why so many Midwest families turn to us for their first home.

Find out how Bigelow Homes can make building your dream home in Minnesota both achievable and enjoyable. Our experience ensures a smooth process, and our commitment means that your needs always come first.

Call us today at 507-529-1161 for more information or request more information online!